Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua on Thursday led a delegation of opposition leaders to Gikomba Market in Nairobi, where they condemned what they described as a brutal night raid on small-scale traders.
Gachagua was joined by Kalonzo Musyoka, Eugene Wamalwa and Justin Muturi, among other leaders, in a show of solidarity with traders who reportedly suffered losses following the incident.
Addressing traders at the busy market, Gachagua criticised the government, accusing it of targeting small-scale business operators instead of addressing what he termed as larger economic challenges affecting the country.
“It is unfortunate that traders at the bottom of the economic pyramid are being targeted, while those responsible for major economic injustices remain untouched,” he said.
The leaders alleged that the raid had disrupted businesses and livelihoods, leaving many traders counting losses. They further claimed that there were attempts to displace traders from the market, warning that any such efforts would be resisted.
Gachagua assured traders that their businesses would be protected, pledging that any alleged plans to grab the land would be exposed and stopped. He urged the traders to remain firm and continue demanding their rights.
“Your market will not be taken. We will stand with you to ensure that your businesses and livelihoods are safeguarded,” he told the crowd.
The leaders also criticised what they described as disregard for court orders related to the market, arguing that any development initiatives should follow the law and protect the interests of traders.
They called for justice and accountability over the incident, urging relevant authorities to address the concerns raised by traders and provide clarity on the circumstances surrounding the raid.
At the same time, the opposition leaders reiterated their commitment to supporting small-scale entrepreneurs, noting that markets like Gikomba play a crucial role in sustaining thousands of families and driving the informal economy.
Gikomba Market is one of the largest open-air markets in Nairobi, known for its vibrant trade in clothes, household goods and other items. Any disruption to operations at the market often has far-reaching effects on traders and their dependents.
The leaders indicated that further measures would be taken to support affected traders, even as calls for investigations into the incident continue to grow.
